To date, the novel coronavirus has infected over 350,000 people in the United States, with over 12,000 casualties.

Unfortunately, multiple news reports have indicated that racial and ethnic minorities have been disproportionately impacted by the current public health crisis, with minority patients in certain areas of the country hospitalized and dying at higher rates
than non-Hispanic patients. While demographic information has been limited, of the states that are reporting racial and ethnic data, the results are alarming. In Florida, both Latinos and African Americans in five counties are experiencing higher infection
rates. Meanwhile, in Louisiana, African Americans represent one-third of the state population yet account for 70 percent of coronavirus deaths.

This is unacceptable. We need to ensure that all Americans have access to quality health care. This month, which is National Minority Health Month, we invite you to join us in support of this resolution that recognizes the harmful health disparities faced
by minority communities during the coronavirus pandemic and which urges immediate action to address the ongoing situation.